School buses lead in rash driving cases, 377 fined

The number of challans issued by the traffic police to school buses has grown five times in the past one year.

The number of challans issued by the traffic police to school buses has grown five times in the past one year.

In the first six months of 2010, the number of challans was just 77, while the entire year reported 129 challans. But by June 30 this year, 377 drivers have already been penalised.

The traffic police challaned major schools in the city as their bus drivers either flouted rules or for dangerous driving. The challans were issued after the police launched a drive on March 9 to check traffic violations. In many cases, the offenders had jumped the traffic signal, putting the lives of students at risk.

“We have sent notices to many school authorities, drawing their attention towards rash driving and traffic violations by bus drivers. Jumping traffic signals has become the order of the day. We have asked school authorities to direct their drivers to abide by the rules,” said a senior traffic police officer.

In March, some schools that were issued notices include Delhi Public School, Balloon Tree School, American School, Shalom Hills International School, Summerfield School, Ryan Public School, Amity School, Scottish High International School and Amiown Public School.

School managements, meanwhile, have said that they would not tolerate violation of road rules by bus drivers.

“We will take all steps to keep students safe, while they travel in school buses. Also, teachers are always present in the bus, who ask drivers to be careful. If a driver violates the rules, he will face legal action. Besides, the school will take action against him,” said a school principal, on condition of anonymity.